By Okram Bimol
IMPHAL, January 17: In the societal context of Manipur, people who are “physically impaired” are still considered less equal than others.
While parents are not comfortable to talk about children who are in this state, there is an acute lack of support systems in place in various fields. This is unfortunately true in the sports arena too, for which the state of Manipur is known to be enthusiastic about.
Kangjam Birendra of Haobam Marak Kangjam Leikai was introduced to fencing in the year 1991 and in 2003 registered for fencing in Delhi as a representative of Manipur.
A diploma holder in fencing, he represented India in World Championships in various countries and represented for the state also.
He remained as coach in many state and presently, is the coach for Wheel Chair fencing Association.
Taking the initiative to bring up differently abled persons and giving coaching for “Wheel Chair Fencing”, Birendra`s efforts have begun to bear fruit even without any support from Government or other agencies and organizations. His coaching in fencing of young people has bagged a rich harvest of medals and recognition for his students at the 5th National Wheel Chair Championships, held at Bhubaneswar on 28-30 December 2012 in which Manipur emerged as team champions held at Bhubaneswar on 28-30 December 2012.
His students, Oinam Meneka (26) from Singjammei Oinam Thingel got 2 golds; Manisana Okram from Chajing Maisem Khong got silver; Chandrakumar Ahanthem (16) of Keishamthong Ahanthem Leikai got 1 gold and Wangkheimayum Sohodeva got 1 gold.
According to Kangjam Birendra, the four players and medalists have now been invited to take part in a trial selection in Bangalore on 28 or 29 Feb to participate in the World Championships at Canada which will commence from 23-28 April. ” But the players are finding it difficult to buy swords and equipments which they have to order from Singapore. We have been able to collect only 25% of the total costs needed through contribution of the players and members and only a generous donation or support from a Government department can cover the remaining costs,” he said.
In a deep emotional tone, he further continued that the association is not under the Sports Authority of India and no other Government Department has come forth to help the association though in other states, such associayions are backed by both SAI and their respective Ministry of Sports. “In such a situation, every requirement of the students has to provided by the association as there is no such place to take forth any complaints for any requirements and their needs. It was in the interest to establish such association for the differently abled to show their hidden talents in front other `normal` persons,` he added.
Oinam Meneka (26) from Singjammei Oinam Thingel is a tutor and is a diploma holder from DOEACC in Computer Science. First introduced to the sport by her local elder Wangkheimayum Sohodeva, who is also a player in the wheelchair fencing category said that she had always got support from her family. “Their encouragement makes up for all the challenges that I face elsewhere,” said Meneka.
Chandrakumar Ahanthem (16) of Keisamthong Ahanthem Leikai is a student of Akash Institute at Kwakeithel Thokchom Leikai studying in 11 science started playing because he was always interested in physical sports. According to him, “Family members should not keep their child hiden from the society because they have the right to be part of the society like everyone,” and continued that it was discouraging that a state like Manipur whose passion and support for sports is well known continues to ignore the needs of differently abled players like himself.
